Frequently asked questions about security technology, Electratec Pro

Question 1

What is Electratec Pro?

Accepted Answer

Electratec Pro is a Swiss specialist for certified low-voltage security technology. We focus on fire detection, intrusion protection, access control and building automation for commercial and industrial properties. As an approved specialist, we plan, install and maintain security systems in compliance with applicable Swiss standards.

Question 2

What services does Electratec Pro offer?

Accepted Answer

Four core services: fire detection (fire alarms, smoke extraction), intrusion protection (alarm systems, video surveillance), access control (electronic locks, access management, time tracking) and building automation. All include planning, installation, commissioning and maintenance.

Question 3

In which regions does Electratec Pro operate?

Accepted Answer

Electratec Pro mainly serves the cantons of Bern, Solothurn, Jura and Neuchâtel, with clients across German- and French-speaking Switzerland. We hold all necessary approvals to install security systems to Swiss standards.

Question 4

Which building types does Electratec Pro specialise in?

Accepted Answer

We specialise in security technology for commercial and industrial buildings, offices, warehouses, production sites, public buildings and apartment buildings, from small businesses to large property portfolios.

Question 5

Does Electratec Pro offer maintenance contracts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer comprehensive maintenance contracts for every installed system. Regular inspections ensure operational readiness and insurance compliance. We take responsibility for all deadlines and documentation duties.

Question 6

How does a project with Electratec Pro work?

Accepted Answer

A typical project includes: 1. Free initial consultation and site visit, 2. Individual security concept and quote, 3. Planning to Swiss standards, 4. Installation by certified specialists, 5. Commissioning and acceptance with full documentation, 6. User training, 7. Ongoing maintenance under a service contract.

Question 7

What is a fire alarm system and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

A fire alarm system (FAS) detects fires early and triggers an alarm automatically. It consists of smoke, heat and flame detectors, a control panel, sounders and transmission devices to the fire brigade. In Switzerland, FAS are mandatory in certain building types under current fire protection regulations.

Question 8

Which Swiss standards apply to fire protection systems?

Accepted Answer

Swiss fire-protection regulations apply, along with the European standards SN EN 54 (fire alarm systems), SN EN 12094 (fixed fire-fighting) and SN EN 12101 (smoke and heat control). Electratec Pro ensures fully compliant execution.

Question 9

What does a fire alarm system cost in Switzerland?

Accepted Answer

Costs depend on building size and requirements. Small property up to 500 m²: CHF 5,000–15,000. Medium property (500–2,000 m²): CHF 15,000–50,000. Large industrial property: CHF 100,000 and above. We issue an individual offer after a free site survey.

Question 10

How often must a fire alarm system be maintained?

Accepted Answer

In Switzerland an annual inspection by an approved specialist company is generally required. Electratec Pro offers maintenance contracts covering all legal requirements and ensuring operational readiness.

Question 11

What is a smoke and heat exhaust system (SHEV) and what is it for?

Accepted Answer

A smoke and heat exhaust ventilation system (SHEV) removes smoke and heat from a building in case of fire. It protects escape routes, supports firefighting and reduces property damage. SHEVs are often mandatory in staircases, atria, underground garages and industrial halls (SN EN 12101).

Question 12

What is an intrusion alarm system (IAS)?

Accepted Answer

An intrusion alarm system (IAS) is an electronic system that protects against unauthorised access. It consists of motion detectors, opening contacts, glass-break detectors, an alarm panel and sounders. On an intrusion attempt the system triggers an alarm and optionally notifies security services or the police. IAS are classified according to SN EN 50131.

Question 13

Which intrusion measures are recommended for commercial premises?

Accepted Answer

A layered concept is recommended: mechanical basic protection (burglary-resistant doors/windows to EN 1627, RC 2–4), an electronic intrusion alarm aligned with insurance requirements, video surveillance with recording, access control for sensitive areas, and connection to an approved alarm receiving centre (ARC).

Question 14

What does a professional intrusion alarm system cost?

Accepted Answer

Small office: CHF 3,000–8,000. Medium business: CHF 8,000–25,000. Large installation with ARC and video: CHF 30,000–100,000. Exact prices follow a free on-site assessment.

Question 15

What is an ARC (alarm receiving centre)?

Accepted Answer

An ARC is a 24/7 monitoring centre that receives and evaluates alarm signals. On a real alarm it automatically contacts a security service or the police. For higher security grades (Grade 3+) ARCs must be certified to EN 50518.

Question 16

Which data-protection rules apply to video surveillance in Switzerland?

Accepted Answer

Video surveillance is subject to the revised Data Protection Act (revDPA). Key points: clear signage, recordings kept only as long as necessary (typically 72–168 hours), no filming of public areas without authorisation, access restricted to authorised personnel. Electratec Pro ensures compliant installation and configuration.

Question 17

What is electronic access control?

Accepted Answer

Electronic access control governs who can access which areas and when. It consists of readers (card, PIN, biometrics), electric strikes, management software and optional time tracking. Permissions are managed digitally and produce a complete access log.

Question 18

What are the advantages over a mechanical lock?

Accepted Answer

Lost cards can be revoked digitally (no cylinder change needed), permissions are finely controlled by time and area, a complete access log is created automatically, staff changes happen without physical key handover, and easy integration with intrusion and time-tracking systems.

Question 19

Which technologies are used?

Accepted Answer

Modern systems use RFID transponders, smartphone access via Bluetooth or NFC, PIN codes (also combined with a card), biometrics (fingerprint, face recognition) for high-security zones, and IP-based network integration for central management.

Question 20

Can access control be combined with time tracking?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Entering or leaving the building automatically creates a time entry. This simplifies payroll, improves accuracy and reduces administrative work. We integrate access and time tracking in a single unified solution.

Question 21

What is building automation and what are the benefits?

Accepted Answer

Building automation controls and monitors heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, blinds and security systems automatically. The connected approach optimises energy efficiency, comfort and operational reliability. Studies show energy savings of 20–40% with professionally implemented building automation.

Question 22

Which standards apply to building automation in Switzerland?

Accepted Answer

SN EN 15232 (energy performance of buildings) applies. Communication between systems uses open protocols such as BACnet (ISO 16484-5), KNX (ISO/IEC 14543) and Modbus. SIA requirements are also relevant.

Question 23

Can I integrate existing security systems?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. Modern building-automation platforms provide open interfaces (BACnet, KNX, Modbus, OPC UA) to integrate existing fire, intrusion and access systems. We assess integration in a free initial consultation.

Question 24

How much energy can be saved?

Accepted Answer

Typical figures under SN EN 15232: heating/cooling 10–30%, lighting 20–40% via presence control, total energy 20–30% with Class A efficiency systems. We prepare an individual potential analysis for your building.

Frequently asked questions about security technology

General, Electratec Pro

Fire protection

Intrusion & video surveillance

Access control

Building automation

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